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The eggs and lava of this mosquito variety have already been discovered in two sites in the south-east of England in 2016 and 2017.

The Asian Tiger mosquito is a small black and white daytime biting insect, which was accidentally introduced to Europe in the 1970s.

Ms Dee Ward-Thompson added: “In terms of the Asian Tiger mosquito, it is particularly important that this pest does not get a toe-hold in the UK as it is a species of concern. They can transmit debilitating and even deadly viruses, including Chikungunya and Dengue fever.

Culex Molestus (Image: British Pest Control Association)

“When it comes to the Asian Tiger mosquito, professional pest control is the first line of defence in protecting the general public, both in identifying the spread of this invasive species and controlling the potentially deadly insect if it gains a foothold in the UK.

“Anybody who does come across this insect should contact a professional pest controller, and the GB Non-native Species Secretariat.

“Whilst we recognise that there is no immediate danger to the public, as an industry we need to prepare to deal with this and any other invasive species that threaten public health.